Fatal Crash in Manchester, NJ: Raymond Santory Killed in Collision with Car

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Manchester Crash Sends Bicyclist to Trauma Center

Manchester, NJ (Ocean) – A car versus bicyclist accident occurred on Thursday, November 16, 2023, around 6:00 p.m., prompting a response from the Manchester Township Police Department. Upon arrival at the scene located at 2011 Route 37, officers discovered a white 2021 Dodge Ram Cargo Van with significant damage to its front passenger side and windshield. Nearby, a male individual was found lying on the grass area in front of a plaza, accompanied by a black electric bike that had also sustained extensive damage. The driver of the van was identified as 34-year-old Jack Ravenna from Greenville, South Carolina, who fortunately did not sustain any injuries. The bicyclist was identified as 46-year-old Raymond Santory from Manchester, NJ, who suffered trauma to his right leg and multiple lacerations to his head and face. Due to the severity of his injuries, Santory was flown via MEDAVAC to Jersey Shore University Hospital Trauma Center in Neptune, NJ for further evaluation and treatment.

According to the crash investigation, the Dodge Ram Cargo Van was traveling west on State Highway 37 in the right travel lane. As it approached the entrance to 2011 Route 37, the van began to make a right turn into the entrance. Meanwhile, Santory was traveling east in the westbound shoulder of State Highway 37 on his electric bike, wearing dark clothing and without a helmet. The collision occurred when Santory impacted the front passenger side of the van, causing him to be ejected from his bicycle and subsequently collide with the windshield on the passenger side. After the initial impact, Santory and his electric bike continued to travel east for approximately 10 feet before coming to a final rest on the grass section of the nearby plaza.

Assistance at the scene was provided by EMTs from the Manchester Township Division of Emergency Medical Services, as well as paramedics from Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. The investigation into the crash is still ongoing. However, preliminary findings suggest that Santory’s failure to ride his bicycle with the flow of traffic and his use of dark clothing were the primary contributing factors to the accident. Patrolman Conner Yatauro from the department’s Traffic Safety Unit is currently investigating the incident.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following traffic laws and safety guidelines while riding bicycles. Wearing bright and reflective clothing, as well as using proper safety equipment such as helmets, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. The Manchester Township Police Department urges all cyclists to prioritize their safety and remain vigilant on the roads.